BASF Sues Apple Over Face ID Patent Infringement

The German chemical company BASF sued Apple Inc. in the U.S. District Court in Midland, Texas, alleging the technology giant infringed on seven patents related to face authentication. The lawsuit, filed through BASF's trinamiX unit, claims that Apple's Face ID did not use the patented technology at its 2017 launch but now incorporates material and skin detection in newer models.

According to the filing, the affected devices include the iPhone 15, 16, 17, and iPad Pro. BASF alleges these products use its proprietary technology to prevent spoofing by 3D masks or photographs. The trinamiX technology specifically utilizes near-infrared light backscattering and "Beam Profile Analysis" to verify living skin.

BASF is seeking an injunction to stop further infringements and unspecified monetary damages. Apple has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the allegations.